Climate change report calls for iterative risk management framework

Abstract

Climate change is occurring, is very likely caused by human activities, and poses significant risks for a broad range of human and natural systems, a 12 May report by the U.S. National Research Council (NRC) reaffirms. The report includes a series of recommended steps to respond to those risks. In addition, the report urges an iterative risk management framework that can adapt to new information and changing circumstances and concerns about the risks. “Each additional ton of greenhouse gases emitted commits us to further change and greater risks. In the judgment of the [NRC] Committee on America's Climate Choices, the environmental, economic, and humanitarian risks of climate change indicate a pressing need for substantial action to limit the magnitude of climate change and to prepare to adapt to its impacts,” the report states.